Intelligence in Chimpanzees is linked to willpower

Willpower is a sign of high intelligence, and a new study shows some chimps have it. Just like in humans, the smartest chimps are typically better at exerting self-control and delaying gratification to receive a better reward later on, research found. Researchers hope to use this link to assess the role that willpower played in the evolution of humans. Willpower is a sign of high intelligence, and a new study shows some chimps have it. Professor Michael Beran, lead author of the study from Georgia State University, said: 'The fact that this link between self-control and intelligence exists in species other than humans may demonstrate an evolutionary basis for the role that willpower plays in general intelligence. 'Future research could clarify whether the relationship also exists in other primates and even non-primate species.'